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Education in Croatia
Children in Croatia have a right to school, and adults can usually access language or integration courses. Contact the municipality early once you have an address.
Schools and language support in Croatia
Free Croatian classes: State-funded courses for permit holders and beneficiaries of international protection. Apply via Ministry of Science — Courses run in Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, Osijek. Certificate at A2/B1. Your rights: Anti-discrimination act protects everyone regardless of origin. Ombudsman — Pučki pravobranitelj — free complaints in any language. Violence — 116 006 national victim support line, free 24/7.
Enrolling children
Bring passports or ID, birth certificates, previous school documents, vaccination records if available, and proof of address. If documents are missing, still contact the school or municipality — children should not wait at home.
Adult language and integration courses
Learning Croatian makes appointments, work and school contact much easier. Ask integration offices, adult education centres, municipalities and NGOs about free or subsidised courses.
Education-related offices
MUP — Ministarstvo unutarnjih poslova: Residence permits, address registration. Porezna uprava: OIB — personal tax number. HZZO: Public health insurance. HZMO: Pension insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Can my child start school before all documents are ready in Croatia?
Yes, schools and municipalities should help children enter education even while paperwork is being completed.
Which office should I contact first in Croatia?
Start with MUP — Ministarstvo unutarnjih poslova. For broader newcomer help, also check MUP — Ministarstvo unutarnjih poslova, Porezna uprava, HZZO.
What language will offices use in Croatia?
The main administrative language is Croatian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do my children need documents to enrol in school?
Schools must enrol every child. If documents are missing, the municipality helps to sort it out — do not delay.
Can I study for free?
Public universities are free or low-cost for EU citizens and often for other residents after a qualifying period.